Considering Cambridge Audio Amp/CD - Need Advice

I would consider buying an older Rotel Int. amp and an older RCD-855 CDP. Both could be bought for under $300 used. Or go w/ a newer Rotel RCD-975 CDP or a CAL Icon MK II/DX-2. Under $500. Any of these combinations should sound exc. w/your Paradigms. (I'm enjoying my Paradigm Phantom V4's w/all Rotel equipment. Exc. value and great build quality.) Good Luck! Bill

For this guy, why would a lack of a main-in jack matter as a reason not to buy the Cambridge. Its an budget integrated amp. There are uses for this, but why would the typical person upgrade the preamp part?

I've always thought that those budget amps with cheap jumpers on the pre-out/main in, just degrades the sound, especially after they get older.

Kind of like buying car based mainly on how good the stereo is.

FOLLOW-UP:

Someone asked me about a tuner, and I really don't need one. I used to have a tuner with my old crappy Technics system and I got rid of it because I noticed that it had been years since I listened to the radio and it was taking up space. Also, a main-in jack is not important.

Among other things, people have suggested to me the following: Music Hall intergrated amps (25.2) and CDP's, the NAD C-352 integrated, the NAD C541i CDP, the NAD C542 CDP, an older Rotel Int. amp and an older RCD-855 CDP, a newer Rotel RCD-975 CDP or a CAL Icon MK II/DX-2.

Has anyone compared any of those suggestions to either a Cambridge Audio 640A v.2 integrated or 640C v.2 CDP? I appreciate the suggestions, but if I'm going to seriously consider a different option, I want to make sure I'm at least going to get as good a system or better. Has anyone done a side by side comparison with any of these?

Unfortunately, I live in Southern Oregon and the nearest audiophile store to me is at least a 3-hour drive. Even then, many of them only have very limited brands so it would be very difficult if not impossible to compare the Cambridge Audio units I'm eyeing with some of those others suggested unless I got really lukcy and they carried both brands. That's why I'm trying to make the best decision based on my online research.

I find it a bit frustrating doing research, as once I find equipment that looks highly reviewed and sounds ideal, I find another website or review where someone is trashing the same unit. Everyone seems to have different standards. I want to have the highest standards I can, but for now have to settle with the higher standards I can while staying near my budget. ;)

Even if you had access to all these in a store, it is very difficult to discern differences much less preferences unless you have it in your own system for an extended period.

I'd suggest finding a source that offers you a 30 day evaluation period, pick one, and give it a listen. For example, AudioAdvisor.com carries the Cambridge Audio stuff (NAD also I think), has free shipping and will give you 30 days to decide. Your only cost should you return it, is the cost of shipping.

Should you want to try something else, I've found many vendors will offer an evaluation period if you ask.